Hodding Carter III, son of journalist Hodding Carter, Jr. is a  Professor of Leadership and Public Policy at the  University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  His parents feature prominently in the story of the effect of Louisiana's Huey Long on the every day lives of Louisianans as told in the Ken Burns film Huey Long.   Mr. Carter III is well known for having worked on Jimmy Carter's campaign in 1976.  President Carter appointed him Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affiars and State Department spokesman;  this came at a difficult time in American history as a hostage crisis involving Iran pre-occupied much of the effort of the Administration. 

Mr. Carter's observations on Louisiana are just amazingly insightful.  It is a primer in Louisiana politics to hear him speak.  I deeply appreciate his time and kindness in sharing his views on Huey Long's power grab and why it was successful.  He comments on his father's politics in a fascinating way.  In his brilliant film, Huey Long, filmmaker Ken Burns relied heavily on Mr. Carter's mother, Betty, and her clear analysis of politics Louisiana style to guide the main narrative.  It is easy to see that Mr. Carter has some powerful and lasting influences from his parents which contributed to an honorable career in public service.  He is also a much sought after commentator for a variety of news outliets.